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Fractional CFO

You Might Not Need A Full-Time CFO Yet—Here’s Why

You Might Not Need A Full-Time CFO Yet—Here’s Why

As a company accelerates into the early growth stage, new challenges and priorities arise. Many founders have met this initial success through mentorship, affordable junior talent, contract bookkeepers, and internet advice—an admirable accomplishment. But alongside this growth comes complexity, and the need for an elevated expertise. Whether it's Series A fundraising, risk management, or strategic forecasting, this complexity often prompts startup founders to question: Is it time for a full-time CFO? Founders want to think big-picture, but might lack the nuanced perspective—and hiring a veteran CFO full-time isn’t the only solution.

Fractional CFO vs. Interim CFO: When is the Right Time to Engage?

Fractional CFO vs. Interim CFO: When is the Right Time to Engage?

Fractional CFOs and Interim CFOs are two types of outsourced CFO talent. Which type does your company need? It depends on the circumstances and how much support your team requires. Familiarize yourself with the terminology by learning what each role entails and when your company might enlist each type of outsourced CFO. 

When to Bring a Fractional CFO on board from Seed to Series A

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When to Bring a Fractional CFO on board from Seed to Series A

As startups transition from the seed stage to Series A funding, strategic financial management becomes increasingly critical. While many founders initially handle finances themselves or rely on part-time assistance, knowing when to bring a Fractional Chief Financial Officer (CFO) into the fold can be a game-changer. 

In the seed stage: resources are often tight, and founders wear multiple hats, including financial oversight. However, as the business gains traction and secures seed funding, the complexity of financial operations grows. This is the stage where a Fractional CFO can provide invaluable expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and establishing robust financial processes.

By the time a startup approaches Series A funding: the need for strategic financial leadership becomes more pronounced. Investors scrutinize financial metrics closely, and a solid financial strategy can be a key differentiator in securing funding. A Fractional CFO brings a depth of experience in navigating fundraising, preparing financial forecasts, and communicating financial insights effectively to investors.

A Fractional CFO offers scalability and flexibility, aligning with the evolving needs of the business. Instead of committing to a full-time hire, startups can access top-tier financial expertise on a part-time basis, optimizing resource allocation and minimizing overhead costs.

By engaging a Fractional CFO at the right time, startups can set a solid foundation for sustainable growth and financial success. Is this the right time for your business? Reach out: ascentcfo.com



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The Power of a Fractional CFO: Why Your Business Could Need One

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The Power of a Fractional CFO: Why Your Business Could Need One

In today's dynamic business landscape, companies face multifaceted financial challenges that demand strategic expertise and guidance. Enter the Fractional CFO – a flexible, cost-effective solution providing invaluable financial leadership without the commitment of a full-time hire. Here's why your business needs one:

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Ask a Fractional CFO: Ascend to Your Next Stage of Growth!

Ask a Fractional CFO: Ascend to Your Next Stage of Growth!

Ascent CFO Solutions is excited to share a highlight video + full recording of our 2023 Denver Startup Week Session - Ask a Fractional CFO: Ascend to Your Next Stage of Growth! In this session, experienced Fractional CFOs discuss how their role helps entrepreneurs build sustainable businesses that are ready for their next stage of growth. Founders leave the session with a deeper understanding of how both a Fractional CFO and a firm understanding of their financials can help them reach their growth goals.

How AI is Transforming Finance and Executive Roles - A CFO's Perspective

How AI is Transforming Finance and Executive Roles - A CFO's Perspective

We are entering a new era where artificial intelligence (AI) is accelerating how efficient each of us can be. In the very near future, AI tools are going to be just as critical to all of our roles as a Google search. As CFOs and executives, it’s essential that we learn how to interact with AI effectively. In this article, Michael Leonardi, CPA, discusses where AI is now, where AI could be going in the future, and how you can be using AI to increase your efficiency right now.

A Fractional CFO’s Role in Exit Planning and Business Transitions

A Fractional CFO’s Role in Exit Planning and Business Transitions

Change and growth are part of life, especially for anyone running a small to medium-sized business. For many, exit planning implies a sale to private equity (PE) or an acquisition by an industry strategic, but in reality, businesses undergo multiple transitions from one stage of operation to another. Whether your business is transitioning from a pre-revenue stage, shifting from a growth to profit focus, initiating a fundraising round, or putting the company up for sale, a great CFO, whether full-time or fractional, will always have your company prepared. Here is a close look at the CFO’s role in exit planning and business transitions.